If you have been a long time follower of my blog or Instagram you know how important my dog, Daphne, is to me and my husband. She is absolutely a part of our family. I’ve always considered all pets in my life to be a part of my family. This is why it is so important to me that we introduce Daphne to our baby the right way — a way that she can be comfortable with.
Researching ways how to prepare dog for baby is super important to me so that I can ensure I am taking the best possible precautions to benefit both Daphne and my baby boy.
**You can get the exact baby onesie you see in the pictures here!
How To Prepare Dog For Baby
Your dog is already super intuned to everything you do, so there is a high probability that they already sense a change coming. They sense your energy, which means the more anxious you feel your dog will mimic those feelings. Introducing a new baby (or babies!) to your dog can be exciting and fun, but it can also be confusing and scary for them. From the way the baby smells, sounds and acts — your dog can be left feeling terribly confused and possibly jealous over the attention you are now giving the baby, instead of them.
Don’t Forget Routine
You and your dog have already established a routine together. From daily walks, feedings, playtime, treats, etc. Maintaining your dogs routine as much as possible is important to continue to provide the sense of security you have already ingrained in them. Baby is sure to disrupt your sleep schedule (and every other schedule you have). It’s understandable that you can’t keep the exact same schedule, but try to keep it as close as possible.
Introduce Baby Items
There will be so many new items in your home for baby. Allow your dog to sniff and explore all items as much as possible. Don’t make your dog feel anxious or upset about being curious. From furniture in the nursery, toys, clothes, lotions, powders, diapers… there are plenty of new items in your home for your dog to be introduced to. You need to wash everything anyway, why not let your dog check it all out first?
Baby-Proof In Advance
Are you planning on using baby gates or blocking off rooms altogether once baby is home? Do this in advance to get your dog used to the new barriers. Remember, it’s important to take these precautions before baby comes home so that your dog isn’t associating all these new changes with the baby.
Bring Home Baby’s Scent
After the baby is born and mom and baby are still in the hospital, have someone (whoever is taking care of your dog at this time) take a blanket or bodysuit home to your dog that has the baby’s scent on it. This can be less shocking for your dog and help your dog get used to the scent before baby arrives.
Have A Controlled Introduction
Your dog will immediately identify a new scent entering the home, which is why it is helpful to introduce that new scent prior to the actual introduction. Make sure you are introducing baby and dog in a calm state. Start with allowing the dog to sniff the babies feet and slowly work your way to a face-to-face introduction. If possible, have your dog sitter walk and play with your dog prior to baby’s arrival so that your dog has the least amount of energy.
Stock-Up on Dog Toys
It’s inevitable — your dog will at some point want one of (or all of) baby’s toys. Don’t yell or become overly aggressive if your dog steals the baby’s toys. Remember, these toys will smell like baby. You don’t want to your dog associating this particular smell with your aggression. Instead, find a way to calmly take and replace baby’s toy with a dog toy.
Dog-Only Space
A new baby can be stressful for not only you but your dog, too. Your dog may want to get away from the constant commotion and noises and have alone time. Therefore, your dog needs it’s own space, such as a crate or dog bed that they feel comfortable retreating to. Ensure this is a dog-only space (i.e. not a couch or bed where you and baby will also be).
There is a ton of advice out there for introducing dog to baby. Although there are plenty of tips that are beneficial to all, it is important to find the best advice that will work for your situation. Maybe you have multiple dogs or your bringing home multiple babies, you may need to prepare in different ways from someone who is only bringing home one baby to one dog (like me!).
No matter your situation, try to remain calm to help keep your dog calm as well. This is a new and exciting time not only for you but your dog, too.
